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Norwegian Star Review

4.0 / 5.0
2,583 reviews

Norwegian Star - Cruise to Nowhere

Review for Nowhere Cruise on Norwegian Star
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Ileene
First Time Cruiser • Age 60s

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Sail Date: Aug 2003
Traveled with children

I arrived in Oahu early and took a limo taxi to the hotel for about $30. We took the Deluxe Grand Tour of the island one day and spent another day at the Polynesian Culture Center. We took a Limo Taxi to the pier and it cost $20. I sailed on the Norwegian Star on August 10, 2003. Although there were 2,500 guests on board, the ship never felt crowded. Only during the embarkation were there crowds. Once we were on the ship, it was never very crowded in one place. All the people just spread out through out the ship. The Cruise Director, Patti Honacki and her staff were friendly and wonderful. The Hotel Director, James Deering and his staff were accessible and very helpful. Each night we saw two great shows. The Matongi Polynesian Cast were fantastic. We were able to learn about the culture during the shows and Hawaiian Arts & Crafts classes with Cathy, the Hawaiian Ambassador on board. I took home many handmade crafts that I learned to make during the classes. (Coco Nut Lei, which sells for $6-10 in stores.) The Jean Ann Ryan Company is a very talented and entertaining group. I loved the show "It's Fame" because it was a top notch show. The band that played at the 50s?60s Sock Hop were phenomenal. Roger Carr had a marvelous show. The Cirque Asia show was extraordinary for a cruise show. The Magic and Illusions of Charles Bach and the comedy of Rex Havens were remarkable. The Stardust Theater is large and very comfortable. Just imagine how mush these show would cost at home. I chose only to eat at the free restaurants. Since I either ate early or late, I was able to avoid all the lines. My favorite restaurant was Versailles. The service was excellent and the food marvelous. I had rack of lamb, veal, beef ribs, lobster, etc. The desserts were all wonderful. I made reservations for Endless Summer and LaTrattoria for 9:00. We were able to get into Aqua without waiting. Don't miss the Chocoholic Buffet on Wednesday at the Versailles. Even if you don't like chocolate you will enjoy this. Remember to try the beef ribs from The Grill by the pool. Also look for the 2 for 1 drink specials on the ship. During Bingo they gave out a couple of free Norwegian Cruses for two away. Some of the other prizes were good also. One prize was an instant upgrade to a balcony cabin. The Freestyle Daily is your lifeline and connection to all the activities on the ship. Bring a high lighter pen to highlight the important events you wish to attend. Make sure you get your tender tickets the day before you get to the island. They will call your tender number and it will go quickly. Fanning Island was like one big flea market. All the merchandise is made by the natives. Most items are made from shells and cost a dollar. The food and stuff is brought from the ship. There are a few flies but it was not a bid problem. At each port there were free shuttle buses waiting for the passengers. I booked my shore excursions online and my tickets were on my bed, the first day. I avoided the long lines and disappointment of not getting on a fully booked tour. When we got back on the Star we went through a security check and x-ray equipment scanned our things. I felt safer doing this. Debarkation was really simple. We got colored coded tags and we were able to leave when they called my color. There was a short line at Versailles and I was able to enjoy a leisurely last breakfast before leaving the ship. The ship is almost brand new and has a beautiful Grand Atrium. I had an inside stateroom and it was comfortable. It had a good sized bathroom. The stewards kept it spotless. The shows are top notch and very enjoyable. Freestyle dining is great, but may not be for everyone. Shore excursions went smoothly and were wonderful. There is not one thing I was unhappy with. Yes, we had rough seas but you can't blame anyone for that. I had a FIVE STAR trip from beginning to end.

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